In today’s rapidly evolving library environment, data-driven decision-making is essential for improving services, enhancing resource management, and ensuring effective engagement with library users. The Library Analytics and Data-Driven Decision-Making Training is designed to provide library professionals with the tools and knowledge necessary to harness the power of data to make informed decisions that align with the library’s mission and goals. This course will help participants understand how to collect, analyze, and apply data to improve library operations, user services, and strategic planning.

Participants will be introduced to library analytics, including how to leverage library systems and digital tools for data collection, as well as methodologies for analyzing usage patterns, trends, and service effectiveness. By focusing on practical approaches, the course will equip library staff with the skills to use data as a foundation for better decision-making and more impactful outcomes for their libraries.

Target Audience:

This course is aimed at library professionals, including:

• Library Managers and Administrators
• Data Analysts in Libraries
• Library Staff and Practitioners seeking to improve data literacy
• Library Technologists and Information Systems Professionals
• Academic and Research Librarians
• Library Consultants

The course is designed for individuals and teams who are interested in improving their library’s service delivery through evidence-based strategies and a greater understanding of data analytics.

Course Objectives:

By the end of the Library Analytics and Data-Driven Decision-Making training, participants will be able to:

• Understand the Role of Data in Libraries: Comprehend the importance of analytics in shaping library strategy and enhancing operational effectiveness.
• Collect and Analyze Library Data: Learn how to gather relevant data from library systems, digital tools, and user feedback to inform decisions.
• Apply Data to Decision-Making: Use data-driven insights to make informed decisions that improve library services, resource allocation, and user engagement.
• Leverage Library Management Systems (LMS): Utilize library management software and analytics tools to track usage, monitor trends, and evaluate performance metrics.
• Understand Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): Identify and apply KPIs to assess the effectiveness of library programs, services, and user satisfaction.
• Implement Data-Driven Strategies for Continuous Improvement: Develop and implement strategies to improve library operations based on data findings.
• Evaluate the Impact of Library Services: Assess how well library services are meeting user needs and institutional goals by analyzing data insights.
• Foster a Culture of Data-Driven Decision-Making: Promote the use of data-driven insights across library teams for more collaborative and efficient decision-making.

This training will empower participants to harness the power of data to make smarter, more strategic decisions that enhance library services and meet the evolving needs of library users.

Duration:           5 Days

Course Content

Introduction to Library Analytics

• Overview of library analytics and its significance in modern library management
• Key concepts in data-driven decision-making
• The role of analytics in improving library services and operations

Types of Library Data

• Types of data collected in libraries (usage data, circulation data, user feedback, etc.)
• Differentiating between quantitative and qualitative data
• Data sources: Library Management Systems (LMS), integrated library systems, and external tools

Data Collection Techniques

• Methods for collecting library data (manual and automated)
• Using library management systems to gather user and transaction data
• Surveys, interviews, and other feedback mechanisms

Data Management and Organization

• Organizing and structuring library data for analysis
• Best practices for data cleaning, validation, and storage
• Managing data integrity and security

Data Visualization for Libraries

• Tools and techniques for visualizing library data
• Creating meaningful charts, graphs, and dashboards to present insights
• Interpreting data visualizations for decision-making

Understanding Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) in Libraries

• Defining KPIs specific to library services and operations
• Setting and measuring KPIs for library programs
• Using KPIs to track library performance and user engagement

Analyzing Library Usage and Trends

• Analyzing circulation data to identify patterns in library usage
• Tracking usage of online databases, e-books, and digital content
• Identifying trends in user behavior and preferences

User Behavior and Satisfaction Analysis

• Collecting and analyzing data on user satisfaction
• Methods for measuring user engagement and experience
• Analyzing survey results, focus group feedback, and user interviews

Utilizing Predictive Analytics in Libraries

• Introduction to predictive analytics techniques in library contexts
• Forecasting library trends and user needs using historical data
• Making proactive decisions based on predictive insights

Strategic Decision-Making Using Data

• Using data to guide decision-making at the operational, tactical, and strategic levels
• Incorporating data insights into strategic planning and budgeting
• Case studies of data-driven decision-making in libraries

Library Data Analytics Tools and Technologies

• Introduction to popular data analytics tools for libraries (Excel, Google Analytics, Power BI, Tableau, etc.)
• Leveraging Integrated Library Systems (ILS) and Discovery Tools for analytics
• Evaluating and choosing the right analytics tools for your library

Data-Driven Marketing and Promotion

• Using data to guide library marketing campaigns
• Targeting library outreach efforts using data insights
• Analyzing campaign effectiveness through data

Measuring the Impact of Library Programs and Services

• Techniques for evaluating the effectiveness of library services and programs
• Using data to assess outcomes and impact on the community
• Reporting findings and recommendations based on data analysis

Creating a Data-Driven Library Culture

• Building a culture of data-driven decision-making in the library
• Engaging library staff and stakeholders in data initiatives
• Promoting collaboration and continuous learning in library data practices

Ethics and Data Privacy in Library Analytics

• Understanding ethical considerations in collecting and using library data
• Ensuring privacy and confidentiality of user data
• Complying with data protection laws and regulations

These 15 modules will provide library professionals with the foundational knowledge and practical skills needed to implement a data-driven approach in their libraries, enabling them to make informed decisions, optimize services, and enhance user experiences.

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement.

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request.

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 5 working days before commencement of the training.

Course Booking

Please use the “book now” or “inquire” buttons on this page to either book your space or make further enquiries.